2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RX-8 | 280 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 224 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 82 L |